Education Correspondent

The Australian Financial Review is the nation's premier business and politics publication, renowned for its incisive, independent and agenda-setting journalism. The Financial Review believes an innovative and entrepreneurial business community is critical to Australia’s future prosperity in an increasingly connected world. Our focus is Australia but our mindset is global; we are as committed to covering the corporate and political stories that will shape the new economy as we are to reporting on the establishment. We believe that it is important for our newsroom to celebrate success and scrutinise misconduct. Financial Review readers want to make up their own minds which means our editorial mission is to be impartial, informative and accountable. The Financial Review is home to Australia's top journalists, all of whom work tirelessly to produce trusted, timely and engaging content with a focus on digital audiences and contemporary forms of storytelling.

The Australian Financial Review is seeking an Education Correspondent who will set the national agenda with insightful coverage of the Australian education sector. In this role, you will hold institutions to account across the secondary and tertiary systems, cover significant moves at the top of major providers, and write creative features about significant trends or policy developments in education. 

This position could be based in either Sydney or Canberra. 

Day to day you will:

• Break major news and generate original story ideas to lead the national conversation on the education sector.
• Cover a diverse range of issues across all levels of Australian education, including schools, universities, and vocational training.
• Maintain and expand a robust network of authoritative contacts to ensure your reporting remains ahead of the curve.
• Prepare accurate, balanced, and timely reports and analysis that conform to the high standards of the AFR style.
• Collaborate with editors and journalists across the newsroom to plan comprehensive coverage and innovative projects.
• Proactively manage the visual presentation of your stories by commissioning high-impact photography and graphics.
• Navigate strict digital deadlines to ensure a consistent flow of high-quality content for our audience.

What you'll bring:

• Proven experience as an education or political reporter, backed by a portfolio of high-quality writing.
• A deep understanding of the education sector and the key players influencing education policy.
• An established network of reliable contacts and the ability to build trusted professional relationships.
• Sharp editorial judgement, with a demonstrated knack for nailing the right angle and pitching compelling stories.
• Exceptional writing skills across various formats, including news, features, and sophisticated analysis.
• Strong interpersonal and organisational skills, with the ability to work both independently and as a collaborative team player.
• Experience in digital article production, including headline writing and image selection, or a proactive willingness to learn.

How we work

At Nine, our flexible work options vary by role and team. Depending on the position, this may include flexible hours, hybrid work, or part-time arrangements. We welcome discussing your flexibility needs during the hiring process - just ask the Talent Acquisition team. 

Our employee benefits include:

• 18 weeks paid parental leave with no distinction between primary and secondary carers.
• Access to 'Employee Exclusives' program - a way of getting closer to our incredible brands, offering unique experiences, behind-the-scenes access, and awesome perks.
• Digital newspaper subscription to our mastheads.
• Annual gift voucher for Stan subscription.

More info at Nine Careers.

Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion:

We're committed to a safe, respectful and inclusive Nine. From day one, you'll be encouraged to bring your whole self to work and will be supported to perform at your best.

We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disabilities, and of all ages, genders, nationalities, backgrounds and cultures as we recognise the importance and value of diverse perspectives. Should you require any adjustments to the recruitment process, please advise us when you apply.

Work rights: Please note to apply for this role you must already have the right to lawfully work and live in Australia.